The Philippines is a nation that is geographically set apart from mainland Southeast Asia, and comes with its own unique traditions and practices. It is a country defined by devout Catholicism, emerald-green rice fields, buzzing megacities, festivals and feasts, colourful jeepneys, smouldering volcanoes and truly resilient people.

Palawan province south of the Philippine capital has enamoured many an adventurer with its famed Underground River, Tubbataha Reef and exclusive resorts in El Nido. On the northern tip of the province, the Calamian group of islands beckons to travellers willing to forego luxury comforts for unspoilt natural beauty. It is here, on these sparsely populated islands, that I found myself smitten by the homeland I am only beginning to explore.

Rich in natural resources and one of the wealthiest kingdoms in the world, Brunei Darussalam reveals yet another treasure, which is perhaps more valuable than all its petroleum put together: Its untouched coral reefs and marine biodiversity.